Asiimwe’s Gift has made history! What started as a student project at Sisi Film Lab has now become a four-time award-winning film at the Western Film Awards, including the Best Film Award. The recognition has been overwhelming for the entire team, and for Angel Gumisiriza, the film’s director, this moment feels almost unreal.
Asiimwe’s Gift is that story that is too important to be left untold —a powerful student short film that sheds light on forced marriage, the struggles of young girls, and the unbreakable bond between women. Rooted in real-life experiences, the film explores the silent suffering of women and young boys who are forced into marriage due to cultural traditions.
Every great film begins with a story, and for Angel Gumisiriza, the inspiration for Asiimwe’s Gift came from a conversation at home. But transforming that idea into a screenplay was no easy task.
“It all started with the story. I got an idea from some lady at home and decided to write about it. I did nine drafts on the script before I came to the final draft to shoot.”
Angel recalls how scary the pitching process was:
“The problem was pitching at Goethe Zentrum Kampala /UGCS —trust me, it felt like I was doing high school final exams. God was great; I got the funds after rehearsing and convincing them.”
With the financial hurdle cleared, production began—but exhaustion quickly set in. At one point, Angel was so tired that she momentarily stepped back from directing.
“At some point, I was so tired to direct. I remember asking my Assistant Director to direct at least one scene, and she ran away! Those were two of the worst days of my life, if I may say. But we made it through according to our schedule.”
Despite all the hard work and struggles, Angel never expected the level of recognition the film received.
“To tell the truth, I was not expecting it. I knew we had done a good job with our film because we put in our best, but the award was not part of the things we hoped for—leave alone four awards! It feels untrue, like a dream I am living and walking.”
But the reality of winning four awards—including Best Film—has left her overwhelmed with joy.
For Cedric Bukenya, the lead actor in Asiimwe’s Gift, winning Best Actor was a deeply humbling moment. This was his first national award, and it felt like the recognition of years of hard work.
“It’s overwhelming and humbling for me. I mean, being able to get my first national award from such a unique project is really special. It feels like years of hard work given an ounce of recognition, although my intuition tells me this is only the beginning of a significant chapter itself.”
Cedric was particularly moved by the nomination for Best Actor, knowing he was chosen among Uganda’s most talented actors. But he emphasizes that this win wasn’t just his—it was a collective effort made possible by an incredible team.
“I was greatly moved by the nomination for Best Actor, especially being chosen among remarkable filmmakers in Uganda. I am grateful to have worked with a phenomenal team at Sisi Film Lab, a space where dreams of many come to life.”
He also took a moment to appreciate Angel Gumisiriza’s dedication to the project.
“I cannot imagine how Angel Gumisiriza is feeling at the moment, and I feel like she deserves all the flowers she’s getting—maybe they can dare to make up for the sleepless nights in the name of making untold stories like Asiimwe’s Gift.”
Beyond the individual achievements, Cedric sees this film as a powerful story about the injustices faced by young girls and boys trapped in harmful traditions.
“In celebration of this film, we Honor the struggles and triumphs of women in some families, speaking for the silent, timid, and oppressed—not forgetting the shattering of dreams of young boys in the name of early marriage and bride price.”
“I’m thankful to UFF and UCC for the opportunity to lay down such channels of communication through film and awarding them accordingly because it only motivates and drives the stakeholders to do better. I’d love to appreciate Dilman Dila for his faith, knowledge, and mentorship to filmmakers in Uganda.”
For Ginny Kyokusiima, winning best actress came with overwhelming emotions and deep gratitude.
“The night I received the news of Asiimwe’s Gift’s nominations, I couldn’t sleep. The excitement was immeasurable. I found myself rehearsing my speech in front of the mirror, replaying every moment on set—the laughter, the challenges, and the adventure that came with each shooting day. Our cast and crew poured their hearts into this film, working tirelessly, even through sleepless nights. When I finally won the award, the emotions hit me all at once—I was overwhelmed, even numb for a moment. Today, all I can say is that I am deeply grateful to The Sisi Film Collective for giving me the opportunity to be part of this incredible journey. The sky is no longer the limit!”
For the Film’s Producer, Sanyu Sandra, Four Awards is an overwhelming and joyous moment, one that words can barely capture.
“I’m excited, I’m happy that I want to scream in Korean, a language I don’t even know! All I can say is it has been God and God only. The journey was filled with challenges, but seeing the film succeed makes it worthwhile. I’m glad that I was able to produce this beautiful Film. Thanks to Sisi for providing this opportunity.”
From a simple idea to an award-winning masterpiece, Asiimwe’s Gift is evidence that stories have the power to change lives. It is a reminder that perseverance, passion, and faith can turn dreams into reality. With four awards in hand, the entire Sisi Film Lab team celebrates this incredible achievement, one thing is clear: this is just the beginning.
Happy women’s day to all beautiful women out there.